In this “Best of The Beat” feature from 1996, author Sheila Nopper tells the remarkable story of Stella Rambisai Chiweshe, known as the Mbira Queen of Zimbabwe, who: “after many years of struggle and perseverance that began with her unrelenting determination to learn to play the mbira” …. she succeeded, despite social and cultural obstacles, in mastering “an instrument that, for as long as her people could remember, had only been played by men.”

Ambuya Chiweshe continues to perform and tour internationally, receiving many honors and awards over her inspirational 40-year career. Beyond the mbira, she has also been involved in film, theater and choreography projects, and as a teacher, activist, festival organizer and tireless flag bearer for women’s issues. stellachiweshe.com

Among the many women who have benefited from Stella Chiweshe’s groundbreaking accomplishments, we must remember the younger mbira artist, Chiwoniso Maraire, who sadly passed away in 2013 at age 37. Learn more about her life and career here: